Don't Do This in the Boardroom

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First of all, it’s important to remember that many board members are not comfortable with the technology vernacular that we bandy about. Part of our job is to educate our stakeholders in laymen’s terms so that they both understand what we are trying to share as well as feel comfortable when we engage them. People who function at a board level are usually very successful and accomplished individuals. No one likes to feel stupid so make sure that you don’t inadvertently make them feel that way by using language and discussing topics that are alien to them. Translate technical issues into their terms and make them feel comfortable instead of in the dark. And don't leave your own appearance of comfort out of the equation, either.

Years ago there was a TV commercial for an antiperspirant. The tag line of the commercial was “never let them see you sweat.” It’s normal to be nervous in the boardroom, especially if it is a new experience for you. However, it’s critical that your nerves manifest themselves on the inside and that your audience doesn’t pick up on your emotions and view them as fear or lack of confidence.

People want to do business with leaders who are confident in their talents and their positions on important topics. Remember to project that kind of confidence to your audience. The best way to do this, in my opinion, is to spend less time trying to impress people, and more time trying to educate and support people. Be passionate about what you hope to share with this audience and focus more on assisting them understand what you can offer to help them succeed and less time worrying about how brilliant they think you are!

Next, watch your language (and I’m not talking about cursing!). Words have power. Are you using descriptive and positive words that inspire bold action and articulate opportunity? Are you framing the money you are asking for as an investment or as a cost of doing business? If it’s an investment, are you articulating both a quantitative and qualitative ROI? Are your proposals aligned with the major issues that truly matter to your board members and your senior executives?

Remember, every dollar spent on IT can be viewed as a dollar not spent on the organization's mission. That's how it will be viewed unless you help people connect the dots between your proposed investment in technology and the outcomes that matter most to them and the organization.

What are your lessons learned in the boardroom? What are your best-practices? What mistakes have you made that you are willing to share with our community? Let’s keep the conversation going.